Swimming is one of the most popular and mass sports in the world. Its history as a sport discipline began in the second half of the 19th century. Since then, swimming has been constantly improved and modernised in all directions. New styles, rules, equipment, pools, and more accurate timing systems have appeared. And the brightest swimming stars, such as Michael Phelps, are rightly considered legends of the sport and the Olympic Games.
If you thought swimming was just for leisure outside the gym, think again. Incorporating swimming into your training routine at Blegend Gym brings scientifically proven health benefits, making you a more well-rounded martial artist. Let’s explore five undeniable advantages supported by compelling statistics and scientific investigations from reliable sources.
#1 Swimming Improves Cardiovascular Fitness
Swimming isn’t just a refreshing activity; it’s an excellent cardiovascular workout. According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, regular swimmers have a 41% lower risk of early death compared to sedentary individuals. Just 30 minutes of swimming three times per week can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as reported by the American Heart Association.
#2 Swimming Eases Recovery
Martial arts training challenges your body, and swimming provides a low-impact alternative for recovery. A scientific investigation published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology found that swimming significantly reduced joint pain and inflammation. This aligns with another study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, which highlighted improved quality of life for individuals recovering from injuries through regular swimming.
#3 Enhanced Endurance
Endurance is crucial for martial artists, enabling them to perform repetitive motions over extended periods. Swimming, particularly longer laps at slower paces, contributes significantly to building endurance. This endurance ensures you can kick those Thai pads 50 times at the end of a drill without feeling exhausted, allowing you to maintain peak performance.
#4 Swimming Helps To Build Strength
Swimming serves as a moderate form of resistance training, engaging all muscles in your body as you propel through the water. This includes strengthening your back muscles, vital for clinching, grappling, and overall power. Blegend Gym recognizes the importance of a well-rounded strength training program, and swimming is a valuable addition to achieve comprehensive strength.
#5 Increased Lung Capacity
Controlled breathing is fundamental in martial arts, and scientific investigations support the positive impact of swimming on respiratory efficiency. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that swimmers exhibited enhanced lung capacity and respiratory function. Integrating proper breathing techniques through swimming can positively influence endurance during intense martial arts sessions.
Swimming Champions (most awarded Olympians)
Michael Phelps – 23-time Olympic champion (all-time record), 26-time world champion
Mark Spitz – nine-time Olympic champion, the first person to win seven gold medals at a single Games (1972).
Jenny Thompson – eight-time Olympic champion, 18-time world champion
Matt Biondi – eight-time Olympic gold medallist, six-time world champion.
Katie Ledecky – seven-time Olympic champion, 15-time world champion
Our coaches at Blegend Gym understand the significance of evidence-backed training programs, making swimming a key element to unlock your full potential as a martial artist. Join us, and let the pool become your scientifically supported pathway to excellence!
